Third annual microfinance 'summit' planned in San Diego

Are you interested in learning about the microfinance movement? If so, you may want to sign up for the third annual San Diego Microfinance Summit on April 28.

This year's event will be from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace & Justice at the University of San Diego.

The term "microfinance" describes financial services such as small loans or savings accounts provided to low-income individuals or to those who do not have access to typical banking services. Some programs are offered through nonprofits while others are government-sponsored by agencies such as the federal Small Business Administration.

The summit will highlight local and international work by San Diego’s microfinance institutions. Those attending will learn about opportunities to get involved in microfinance and will hear from industry experts. The event is sponsored by Citibank.

The keynote speakers will be leaders within leading microfinance organizations:

The event will include presentations from local small business owners who have received microloans through the Foundation for Women, the International Rescue Committee, CDC Small Business Finance and ACCION San Diego. The entrepreneurs will share how access to capital has improved their businesses and lives.